Vacation is meant to be enjoyed. Your family photos should feel like a natural part of your time on Nantucket, not another item to squeeze onto your itinerary. Knowing how to prepare for your family photo session can help everyone feel relaxed, present, and ready to make beautiful memories together. 

It’s my goal as a Nantucket family photographer to make the experience something you can cherish from beginning to end. And that start with the prep, so that is when I start guiding you. 

Because, the best family photos aren’t about perfect poses. They’re about genuine connection. The laughter, the funny faces and the little moments that make your family yours.

Here’s 10 ways to prepare for your photo session:

Start with Logistics That Fits Your Family

The 1st step is choosing a date and time.

I book out my calendar several months in advance, especially in busy season. But reach out to me, even if you think I’ll be booked. Sometimes I can squeeze in a last minute session! Here is the link to reach out! Once you’ve inquired, we will pick a date & time off the calendar. My sessions usually take place during sunrise or sunset hours for the best lighting.

Step 2: Find a location that feels right for your crew.

Every family is different, and every Nantucket vacation looks a little different too. Whether you love sandy beaches, charming downtown streets, or quiet coastal paths, selecting a location that matches your family’s personality makes all the difference.

Here is a blog post all about locations if you’re curious! 

Step 3: Plan Your Outfits Ahead of Time

One of the easiest ways to eliminate stress is to decide what everyone is wearing the day before your session. Lay everything out, make sure clothes are wrinkle-free, and double check that shoes and accessories are ready to go. This gives you one less thing to think about on session day.

Step 4: Decide if You Want to Add Something Personal

Some families love keeping things simple, while others enjoy incorporating a favorite blanket, bubbles for the kids, or a stop for ice cream afterward. None of these extras are required, but they can make your session feel even more personal if they fit your family’s style.

Step 5: (This one might surprise you!) Prioritize Rest

Vacation schedules can fill up quickly. Between beach days, bike rides, shopping, and dinners, it’s easy for everyone to be running on empty.

If possible, avoid packing your day with nonstop activities before your session. Well-rested parents and happy kids almost always make for a more laid-back experience. Once your session is on the calendar, try to keep the rest of the day fairly relaxed. A slower pace helps everyone arrive feeling refreshed, especially for the little ones who can get really tired in the sun.

Step 6: Think About the Photos That Matter Most

If there are specific family combinations you’d love, like grandparents with the grandkids or siblings together, feel free to make a short list. We’ll absolutely make time for those meaningful portraits.

After that, I’ll focus on capturing the candid moments that happen naturally. Those in-between interactions are often the images families treasure most.

Step 7: Let Me Know How I Can Help

Every family is unique. If your child needs a little extra time to warm up, someone has mobility concerns, or there’s anything else that would help your session feel easier, please tell me ahead of time.

My goal is to create an experience where everyone feels comfortable from start to finish. I want this to be an stress-free experience for you.

Step 8: Build Excitement with Your Kids

Children often take their cues from their parents. Instead of talking about family photos as something everyone has to do, frame it as a fun adventure you’ll experience together.

When kids arrive excited about the opportunity to explore on the beach or get ice cream as a family… the photos typically become something that are easier for them to grasp & enjoy.

Step 9: Bring Water and Easy Snacks

Little breaks are completely okay. Packing water and a few clean, non-messy snacks can be a lifesaver, especially for younger children. Think: goldfish or fruit snacks. (Nothing that creates a mess on those nice outfits you picked out). A quick snack break often gives everyone the boost they need to finish the session feeling happy.

Step 10: Celebrate Afterward

Once your session is over, keep the fun going. Head out for dinner, grab ice cream, or take one more stroll around town together.

The goal is for your photos to become part of your Nantucket vacation story, not something you felt like you had to check off a list. Your photo session should blend seamlessly into your vacation, becoming another joyful memory instead of something that feels stressful.

The most important thing to remember about how to prepare for your photo session is that there isn’t a perfect formula.

Come ready to spend time together, trust the process, and let your family’s story unfold naturally. I’ll be there to guide you every step of the way so your experience feels as effortless as your vacation.

If you’re ready to book your photo session, you can reach out to me here.